Which picture of my doodle should I paint?

[Discussing Labradoodles & Goldendoodles]

My neighbor, a master artist, is giving a class this summer called How to Paint Your Pet, and I've signed up. I'm excited and intimidated by the thought of tackling Sidiqi's curly fur. (My neighbor says no experience is necessary, so if anyone in Central Texas wants to sign up, let me know.) I took some photos today to see if I could come up with a good one to paint. The differences are very subtle, I know, but I'm interested in everyone's opinion. Which one should I paint?

[Kyoko]

If you can crop the background ( The part of the house) and get more closed up, I say the picture #1, if not picture #3!
I like the pose and the face on picture #1, but it may be difficult because there are a lot going on in the background. That's the same reason I picked Picture #3. Less distruction and more focused on Sidiqi, and I think it will help you also to focus on painting Sidiqi, rather than getting distructed on the background details. I hope this helps!

[Linda,Yankee & Finn]

I like the first one with her mouth closed and that innocent look.

[LuvMyAbby&Kaela]

I like the 2nd one

[Doris]

I like the second one! Have fun painting!

[F, Calla & Luca]

I like #1.

[Michele Barton]

I love the 2nd one, it looks like he (she?) is smiling! You will most likely get as many differing opinions as there are people who reply, so in the end, we probably won't be much help to you. Just go with what you love, and I'm sure your painting will be something to treasure forever! (I sure wish I could do something like this; I even have trouble drawing stick men!)

[Steve Drury]

I like the head-tilt in #1; the expression in #2 and the composition of #4. And the joy of painting is that you could create such a composition if you wanted. Bring all four pictures as references to the the various elements you've chosen. The clumps of purple flowering plants make a fantastic backdrop. Have fun.

[Karen & Lucy]

I pick #2

[Jeannine]

I do some painting and the background is not that important. You can change that with no problem. What is medium?
I love the #1. His expression and sweet innocent face is priceless. The # 3 is also very good. The shadow is more deeper, you get more detail than with # 4 and #2.

You can do the # 1 with some background like the # 2 or 3 except the black edging.

Good luck! I will love to see the result of all your efforts!

[Sally, Ditzy Mitzi & Sgt. Pepper]

Hi,

The first picture with Sidiqi's mouth closed may be easier to begin with. I might suggest printing out two of your
favorite pics and asking your teacher to help you choose. I have painted with oil paint which is the most forgiving medium, being the most easily corrected, but it also requires more clean up than other mediums.

Enjoy your painting, it is a wonderful hobby.

[Belinda Stevens]

oops. Just read this one. Exactly... have fun!

[Belinda Stevens]

I agree with one person said. The background is not important. In fact don't even try and tackle that if this is your first time. You can make the background anything you want. Pick which one represents your doodle the most. The photos with the tongue hanging out adds character but it also adds another element of "hardness" shall we say. Once you get one under your belt you will have a better idea what to look for in your photo so just have fun with this one and PLEASE let me know when you complete it. I can't wait to see it.